Southern University Ag Center Reopened Counseling Program
Louisiana residents can now sign up for eight free virtual mental health sessions through the university.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Mental Health
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The Southern University Ag Center has reopened enrollment for its free virtual counseling program. This initiative provides eight sessions to Louisiana residents aged 18 and older.
Why it matters
The program aims to reduce significant barriers to accessing mental health care across the state. It specifically addresses disparities that leave rural populations with limited resources compared to urban centers.
Eligible participants must be at least 18 years old to access the eight free counseling sessions. This service is available to all Louisiana residents.
The players
Southern University Ag Center
This institution is a unit of the Southern University System in Baton Rouge that promotes agricultural and community development.
Positive Transformation Health Services
This organization is a healthcare provider that partnered with the university to deliver mental health support.
The details
Licensed mental health professionals deliver support through phone calls, video sessions, or a specialized Mobile Tech Unit. The effort is a collaboration with Positive Transformation Health Services to expand reach.
Timeline
Program enrollment reopened on October 7, 2026.
The program is scheduled to run through July 31, 2027.
The Big Picture
This story follows a pattern set by the National Institute of Mental Health's rural mental health research initiatives to address geographic care gaps. By utilizing mobile units and virtual platforms, the initiative bridges the persistent divide in healthcare accessibility.
Louisiana residents 18 and older can access eight free sessions without traditional insurance hurdles. The service allows patients to connect with licensed professionals via phone or video from home.
The takeaway
Accessing mental health support is often limited by geography and cost in rural areas of the state. Residents are encouraged to use these free resources to address their mental health needs before the program ends in mid-2027.
What happens next
The program will continue accepting participants until it concludes on July 31, 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest resources in our Mental Health section.
More information
To apply for services, fill out the free teletherapy enrollment form.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WBRZ.
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